Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Tompkins recently visited the Brookside Community Health Center in Jamaica Plain to speak at their annual meeting about his role as Sheriff and the impact of his office on the neighborhoods of Suffolk County.

Open to community members, staff and supporters, the yearly event provides attendees with an update about the health center’s accomplishments for the past year, an address by a special guest speaker and a presentation to community service awardees who are chosen by the health center’s board for their contribution to the community.

One of two health centers licensed by Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Brookside’s mission is to provide high quality, comprehensive, multi–disciplinary, family–oriented care to those who live and work in Jamaica Plain and the City of Boston, regardless of ability to pay.

Speaking to the assembled capacity crowd, Sheriff Tompkins shared his vision for the Department following a demonstration of karate by a local group featuring musical accompaniment, and before the presentation of awards.

“I believe that our mandate extends far beyond just keeping people in our custody who are remanded to us by the courts,” said Sheriff Tompkins. “I believe that we must also work to rehabilitate those in our care, to provide the kind of services and training that will prepare people who leave us to be more able, productive citizens who add to our community’s health, safety and economy rather than draw away from it.”

To learn more about the Brookside Community Health Center, visit this link.